FLS begins four month programme of verge clearance

Forestry and Land Scotland’s (FLS) team in the north of Scotland has started on a four month programme of roadside vegetation management across north east Scotland and at locations near Fort Augustus.

The work will involve the clearance of broom, gorse, scrub and naturally regenerating trees encroaching on forest roads. 

Mulching equipment is typically used – and occasionally circular saws and sheers – to clear a distance of 5m either side of the roads’ centre line.

With a risk of flying debris, visitors are urged to observe safety signage, use alternative routes where possible or, in busier work zones, wait until banksmen advise that it is safe to pass.

FLS Civil Engineer, Anna Torode, said;

“Part of our road maintenance regime involves cutting back roadside vegetation to protect the roads and improve access.

“Changing climatic conditions and a longer growing season mean that we have an extensive work programme to complete across our road network. It can look a bit ‘scruffy’ to begin with but it’s very important that we get it done.

“It improves visibility, providing safe and unobstructed access through our forests but it also protects the integrity of the roads by limiting root damage, keeping drains flowing and allowing light and airflow to improve and dry out the roads.

“It also results in a more inviting experience for visitors.”

Roadside vegetation retains excess moisture and keeps the forest roads wet. This increases the risk of potholing and rutting, and in the colder months increases the risk of frost heave.  

A cleared corridor also acts as a fire break, with a much reduced fuel load lessening the risk of fires crossing the forest road. And should a fire occur, cleared verges ensure that fire service vehicles have unobstructed access to the emergency.

Operations take place in the Autumn and Winter to avoid bird nesting season and where necessary, environmental surveys are carried out prior to the operation.

However, vegetation clearance and mulching can also potentially deliver additional biodiversity benefits.

FLS Wildlife Ecologist, Kenny Kortland, added;

“Mulched material creates habitats for various species, particularly fungi and other lower taxa but this man-made habitat is not well understood.  

“The fertilising effect of mulch that has decomposed will likely alter soil biodiversity communities, potentially increasing biodiversity at the local scale.”

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS 
3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot